Major US airline carriers have chosen Midwest Aero Support (MAS) to supply a new onboard wheelchair model that complies with the updated Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations. The new model, set to be implemented by October 2026, is designed to fit directly in front of or inside lavatory doors, ensuring privacy and accessibility for passengers.
The updated wheelchair features a telescoping back and foot panel extender to accommodate various passenger heights, omnidirectional wheels for improved mobility, and antimicrobial seat covers. It also includes a language-neutral instructional label and can support up to 500 pounds whilst maintaining a lightweight design of 19.2 pounds.
Rick Ruppert, president of MAS, emphasised the importance of the new design: “We took as much weight out and put as many features in the onboard wheelchair as possible to ensure compliance with federal regulation whilst suiting the needs of passengers for navigating the aircraft aisles and lavatory.”
The Department of Transportation's rule mandates that all new aircraft with 60 or more seats delivered after October 2026 must have an ADA-compliant wheelchair. Existing airlines with non-compliant chairs will have a five-year period to transition to the new model.
Burt Mattice, president and co-founder of Diatom Capital, highlighted the urgency for airlines to adapt: “With new compliance requirements taking effect beginning in late 2026, this is a critical time for airlines to prepare.”
MAS has already been producing 150 compliant wheelchairs annually for airlines and charter buses, demonstrating its capability to meet the new federal mandate efficiently
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